The Tom Anstey Column
www.parkworld-online.com
Let’s talk about China
As China continues to emerge as a global powerhouse in themed entertainment, the country’s latest addition - Legoland Shanghai - marks not just another milestone for Merlin Entertainments, but a symbol of the broader transformation sweeping across China’s theme park landscape.
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n the spotlight this month, China is in the midst of a theme park boom, with Legoland Shanghai the latest major operation to come to the country. With a rising middle class and growing disposable income, China is now home to more than 80 large- sized and smaller parks either operating or under development. Competition in the sector is fierce, and with so many parks in operation you might think it for the latest Merlin addition.
Subheading: A landmark opening Officially opened in July, Legoland Shanghai spans an impressive 318,000 square metres and represents a significant investment of US$550 million. The resort combines a full-scale theme park and hotel
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destination, with 75 interactive rides, shows, and attractions spread across eight themed zones. Of course, in typical fashion, Lego models are a huge part of the equation, with models across the park built from more than 85 million Lego bricks. Among its standout elements are a number of global and regional firsts: the world premiere of the Lego Monkie Kid live show, a new IP-driven spectacle inspired by Chinese mythology; and a scenic boat tour through a 25:1 scale Lego re-creation of a skyline. Elsewhere, guests can get a look at the favourites like Ninjago: The Ride, Driving School, and the Water Race Challenge.
According to operator Merlin, the opening of the new attraction in Shanghai marks a new chapter
Looking to the future for Legoland parks in China, Shanghai is just the beginning, with three other parks in Beijing, Shenzhen and Chengdu set to open between 2026 and 2028.
In a wider context, this opening represents the continuation of a major move for China, which is Shanghai in particular has become a theme park hotspot, with more than 160 theme parks, including Disneyland Shanghai, opened in the city by the end of last year.
IP expansion
Elsewhere, Merlin is also preparing to introduce another family-favourite IP. In Chongming, a US$331 million Peppa Pig outdoor theme park is under
SUMMER 2025
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